Kenny George Band: Nashville Energy, Aiken Soul
- Moose Nicholson
- Jun 4
- 6 min read
KGB Get's Electrified for Amp
When the forecast forced a venue change, the Kenny George Band didn’t flinch. They arrived early, worked alongside the Electric Eats crew, and helped rework the layout to squeeze their setup into the corner of the downstairs dining room. It was a tight fit—probably not the most comfortable staging they’ve had—but the energy never dipped. Being a professional is part of the gig, and these guys are absolute pros!
All Quiet Outside
Brody adapted the sound setup for the space, dialing in just the right balance. It was powerful, clear, and perfectly suited for a bustling restaurant filled with clinking glasses, laughter, and a crowd tuned in from the very first note.
Outside, The Alley remained quiet—a rare sight on a Thursday night. But if you happened to walk past the open window at Electric Eats, the sound pouring out stopped you in your tracks. That high-octane alt-country energy—complete with wailing pedal steel and tight harmonies—had all the hallmarks of a Nashville Broadway moment. You could feel it before you saw it.
A Trendy Honky Tonk
Inside, diners knew they were catching something special. Guests came early, enjoyed the show, and many stepped aside after the first set to give others a chance to soak it in. A second wave followed, just as engaged. It felt less like a concert and more like a relay—a community quietly passing the torch to keep the music alive.
It wasn’t a backup plan. It was a shift in shape, not spirit. And in a space not designed for concerts, the Kenny George Band helped turn a modern pub into a honky-tonk for the night.
I Love It When A Plan Comes Together
If you ever needed a reminder that Amp the Alley is more than just a concert series, this week delivered it. It was a masterclass in adaptation—one that relied on more than just weather apps and contingency plans. It leaned on people.
From Electric Eats graciously offering their space, to the KGB crew flexing with a whole new setup, to patrons pivoting their evening plans and showing up anyway—it all worked because everyone wanted it to work.
And as chaotic as the weather made the day, we were reminded of something essential: the businesses that support Amp aren’t doing it because it’s convenient. They’re doing it because it’s who they are. Electric Eats didn’t just open their doors—they reshaped their floor, their night, their rhythm. Not because they had to, but because they believe in the kind of night Amp creates.
Support Those Who Support Us
We’re lucky to have these places. The ones that don’t just operate in Aiken—but pour back into it. Who carry the spirit of local pride and push through, even when things get muddy (literally and figuratively).
So thank you. To our venues. Our sponsors. Our bands. Our fans. You made something special out of a Thursday that could’ve easily fizzled.
And now, as we look ahead to another week of music and magic, we hope you’ll keep showing up. Keep cheering loud. Keep supporting the businesses that support the things you love—because your participation is the part that can't be replaced.
The Right Tool. The Smart Way.
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Why Rent from REFT?
No storage headaches – Don’t let equipment take up space in your garage or yard.
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Whether it’s dirt-moving or detail work, REFT has what it takes to get the job done—without the long-term investment.
Proud sponsors of Amp the Alley and local business in action.
The Quickest Way to Feeling Your Best
Downtown Hydration & Wellness has become a quiet hero of the weekday hustle—offering fast, effective IV infusions that can fit neatly into a lunch break. Most treatments take just 30 minutes, providing a hydration and vitamin boost that’s perfect for anyone running on fumes by midweek.
Of course, no one says you have to leave after 30 minutes. Their space is cozy, calm, and hard to walk away from—especially once the “lunchtime reset” kicks in. For those who need a little extra self-care between the chaos and the concerts, Downtown Hydration makes it easy to pause and replenish.
They’re not just helping Aiken stay well—they’re supporting the energy that keeps Amp the Alley going strong.
Axes. Ales. Amp.
This Thursday, Woodchuckers brings the heat—and the hops—with a special event featuring Savage Craft Brewing. Starting at 6 PM, a rep from the brewery will be on site pouring three of their boldest brews while guests test their skills with axe throwing and enjoy the sounds of Amp the Alley just steps away.
It’s the kind of night where the energy from live music, the thrill of the throw, and the bite of a cold craft beer all collide. If you're looking for an unforgettable midweek hang, this is the place to be.
Axe, drink, repeat. Then head out to catch the music. Be a Savage!
Jazz Night Returns – Saturday, June 7 at 6:30 PM
Rhumba’s Saturday Jazz Nights continue to heat up downtown, and this weekend’s lineup brings back the dynamic pairing of Mike Frost and Jorge Garcia. With Mike on electric bass and Jorge on jazz guitar, the duo creates an effortlessly cool blend of smooth grooves and Latin-tinged licks.
It’s a sound that fills the space with warmth—equal parts laid-back and electric—while the low glow of Rhumba’s interior sets the tone. Guests sip rum, enjoy fine cigars, and soak in the music like regulars at a Havana nightspot.
Whether you're winding down your Saturday or just getting started, this is the kind of evening that reminds you how special live music can be—especially when it's served up this smooth.
Swing by True Aiken Before You Settle Into the Music
AMP EXCLUSIVE - Stop by True Aiken during Amp, tell em Moose sent you, and see if they give you a deal!
Amp nights are long, and if you’re already downtown for dinner or just getting your spot staked out before the band really kicks in — consider stretching your legs and popping into True Aiken.
They’re keeping the lights on at least until 7PM on Thursdays, just long enough for a quick shop between songs, after a meal, or during a stroll through The Alley. You’ll often catch them enjoying the show themselves — just like the rest of us.
And if you’ve admired the Aiken cap perched on the speaker last week (👀), or the local gear we’ve been repping, this is where it came from.
Tell ’em Moose sent you. Maybe you’ll walk out with a discount… and definitely something cooler than what you walked in with.
📍 True Aiken – Just around the corner from the music. Literally.
Tomorrow: Radio Source Band Returns to The Alley
A High-Octane Flashback You Can Dance To
Tomorrow (June 5th), Radio Source brings their signature blend of big energy, throwback hits, and crowd-pleasing stage presence to The Alley. Based out of Columbia, SC, this 80s & 90s tribute band covers everything from Journey to The Killers, with a few wild cards thrown in to keep you guessing.
You may recognize Brian Gibson on bass—an Amp regular who’s played with artists like Brooke Lundy and many others. With seasoned musicianship and a clear love for the stage, Radio Source isn’t just nostalgic—they’re electric.
Come early. Sing loud. And bring your best ‘90s dance moves—we’re closing out the first week of June with a bang.
Next Week: The Grumble
The Grumble is bringing back that punchy, riff-heavy alt rock sound that defined a generation—and somehow still hasn’t gotten enough love on the local circuit. With a setlist packed with deep-cut radio staples and big sing-alongs, this three-piece band fills a niche that’s quietly reemerging but still rare enough to stand out.
Last year’s performance hit all the right notes: Collective Soul , Eve 6, Dishwalla, Sister Hazel, Foo Fighters, Tonic, Sublime, The Wallflowers, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Seven Mary Three. If you lived through the 90s with a burned CD in your glove box, this show’s for you.
It’s gritty, melodic, and just the right amount of nostalgic—don’t miss it.
Bites, Tikes, Sights
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